Robert Bruce Wilson Jr.

July 20, 1933 – December 4, 2024

Robert Bruce Wilson Jr., a devoted father, grandfather, veteran, and hardworking man, passed

away peacefully on December 4, 2024, at the age of 91. Born on July 20, 1933, to Robert B.

Wilson Sr. and Antoinette E. Wilson in Staten Island, NY, Robert lived a life defined by loyalty,

humility, and dedication to his family, work, and community.

Preceded in death by his wife Janet and son Mark, Robert's family finds solace in knowing he is

now at peace, having lived a life defined by devotion, love, and unwavering hard work. He is

survived by his loving children: Linda (Chad) Faria, Robin Wilson, Susan Wilson, and his

daughter-in-law, Lisa Conrad. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren: Bella, Chloe, and

Julia Faria; Maranda Arenas, Derek, Allyson, Alexander, and Lavelle Ramirez; Aline Wilson;

Analise, Chelsea, and great-grandson, Beckett Wilson.

From a young age, Robert’s heart was drawn to the skies. After enlisting in the U.S. Air Force,

he discovered a passion for airplanes, serving as an aircraft mechanic while stationed in

Germany. His love for aviation inspired him to pursue a pilot's license at Embry-Riddle in

Florida. He achieved his dream, becoming a pilot for Eastern Airlines and eventually earning the

distinction of the youngest DC-10 Captain at Continental Airlines.

At age 34, Robert’s path took a romantic turn when a hospital stay introduced him to a nurse

named Janet. Their connection grew, and a year later, they were married. Together, they built a

home in Thousand Oaks, CA, where they raised four children. Robert’s work ethic extended into

his role as a father, as he embraced every opportunity to support his family. He was a Little

League baseball coach and the neighborhood "dad" who piled kids into the back of his station

wagon for weekly trips to the beach. He surfed waves, threw balls, and told off-color (but never

profane) jokes that brought smiles to everyone around him.

When health issues forced him to retire early from his airline career, Robert continued working,

joining the Conejo Valley Unified School District as a custodian. Far from a step-down, he saw

this role as essential, often saying, “It’s the secretary and the custodian who keep a school

running.” His presence was a reassuring constant for students and teachers alike, and he took

pride in the fact that his work directly contributed to the success and well-being of his

community.

Life tested Robert’s resolve in profound ways. He faced the devastating loss of his beloved wife

Janet to cancer and later endured the unimaginable grief of losing his son Mark in 2023. Yet,

through it all, Robert remained a steady force, relying on his humor, and love for his family. He

found companionship with Marilyn Relf in his later years, and he also found joy in his

relationships with his grandchildren.

Robert valued simple pleasures: old movies, live theater, prime rib dinners, Vegas shows, and

the thrill of scratching off lottery tickets. But what defined him most was his unwavering

commitment to hard work and family. He believed in earning his way, leading by example, and

taking pride in every role he played — from pilot to custodian, coach to father.

A celebration of Robert’s life will be held graveside at 10:00 AM at Pierce Brothers Mortuary in

Westlake Village, CA. He lived a long life full of strength, resilience, and quiet determination,

leaving a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.